I just picked up a 82 185. When I put it in first gear and give it some throttle it will start to move and rev up and then it will jump hard and lift the front end. Is this normal? I have not rode one in about 10 years but I do not remember it being like this. There is no way I can even putt around my back yard with the thing now. Is there an adjustment or is my tranny hooped. Thanks

 

It sounds like the weights in the clutch assembly are sticking
Or it could be the clutch adjust
I would adjust the manual clutch release best if you have the manual
This releases the clutch when you push down or pull up on the shifter to release clutch and shift accordingly
From there the clutch is centrifugal meaning there are weights that as you rev the engine they overcome spring pressure and engage clutch move forward
If these are dirty or worn excessivly that will cause the problem you are experiancing
Another thing could be the oil in the engine is it correct
On my 110 and 185s I checked and run the Honda gen4 10w/40 as it is approved for all honda engines
I know the incorrect oil can cause some interisting issues
Good luck
Ray